From Tolosa to the World: Dren Zabala’s Rise Through Resilience and Sound
It’s rare to meet an artist whose journey feels like a handwritten letter to everyone who ever dared to dream in silence.
Suggested:
I'm Matty Paul Revere Thomas IV, and I've been immersed in music for 25 years. My music venture began with guitars and lyrics. At 16, I won a songwriting contest hosted by John Oates. After college in Boulder, I dived into electronic music production.
Authenticity & Genre Exploration
Authenticity shapes my style, even if it challenges algorithms. My influences span Folk/Indie, Hip Hop, Dubstep, Drum and Bass, and Future Bass. Combining acoustic and electronic under one name became my mantra.
Inspirations & Musical Influences
NOFX, Anti-Flag, Billy Talent, Bob Dylan, and Slug from Atmosphere ignited my musical journey. Electronic artists like Opiou, Bonobo, Grizz, Dirt Wire, and Emancipator expanded my creative vision.
Songwriting & Creative Process
My songwriting is about learning what not to do. Repetition and hooks are vital, and I focus on genuine expression over perfection. I draw inspiration from everyday emotions and experiences.
Career Highlights & Moments
A standout moment was performing at GroveStock, where my new music took flight. It helped me conquer insecurities and reinforced the joy of live shows.
Live Performance & Fusion
My live shows blend guitar, vocals, and production. I incorporate bootlegs and flips to keep the audience engaged and familiarize them with my original tunes.
Growth & Acceptance
Embracing imperfections, both in music and life, has been pivotal in my growth as a person and artist. It's led to greater mental and physical well-being.
Attitude Over Talent
Music isn't solely about skill; attitude matters. Bob Dylan's success, despite his unconventional voice, shows that authenticity and genuine expression transcend technical prowess.
As I continue my musical odyssey, I invite everyone to do the same, embracing authenticity and imperfections along the way.
Valerie is the writer of Wavy Music Magazine, a premier destination for music industry professionals. Through her interviews, reviews, and expert insights, she keeps readers up-to-date on the latest trends and developments in the world of music.
It’s rare to meet an artist whose journey feels like a handwritten letter to everyone who ever dared to dream in silence.
There’s a certain quiet force in music that doesn’t need spectacle to make an impact. Some artists just feel true—not because of how loudly they declare themselves, but because their work echoes long after it ends. That’s what drew me to Aaronn.
In an era of fast fame and fleeting hits, it’s rare to come across an artist who’s been building behind the scenes for over three decades. Enter Joey Dogz – a name born from grit and loyalty, and a career shaped by resilience and evolution.